If you can see Mt. Baker, you are part of The Experience
What does the perfect summer day look like to a dog owner and their furry friend? To answer that question, I planned an overnight getaway and brought along Chaska, my Mexican rescue pup, for her take on the Bellingham-based itinerary.
Here’s how our day played out:
Erin: Chaska had already eaten but I was in serious need of a cuppa, so we started the day at Whole Foods on Lakeway Drive. We sat outside as I sipped my cappuccino, enjoying the warmth of the summer sun.
Popping into Mud Bay next door, Chaska let me know which snacks she was interested in while I grabbed a few chew toys for the overnight stay.
Chaska: Who doesn’t love a stop at the Mud Bay treats buffet? I did some strong tail wagging at the ones without chicken meal, but I kept wondering: When does treats time begin?
Erin: Driving out to 745-acre Lake Padden Park, we enjoyed the windows-down weather and the blossoming trees and flowers along the way. When Chaska arrived last year after her trip north, it was the first place I took her in Bellingham. A 2.6-mile footpath circles the lake, and at the far end there’s a short pier where you can fish or watch people (and dogs!) in kayaks or on standup paddleboards. Even if you don’t bring your own equipment, you can rent them at the lake from either Yeager’s Sporting Goods or the city of Bellingham.
But we were there for ground-based activities, so we set out for a brisk walk. At one point, riders on horseback descended from a trail. Chaska was mesmerized by them, and I wondered if she’d ever seen a horse before.
Looping back to the parking lot, we popped into the enclosed dog park. Gregarious mutts frolicked in the field, chased balls, and scurried around inside a short tunnel.
After playing fetch (and rewarding Chaska with a few treats), we sat at a picnic table overlooking the lake. I nibbled on a pre-packed sandwich while she sat on the grass, captivated by the floating lily pads.
Chaska: At the dog park I saw lots of friendly faces and met a kooky canine who followed us around begging for a treat. The off-leash area was fun, but my favorite part was meeting the long-haired animals and watching squirrels darting up trees.
Erin: Most gal-pals like to get mani-pedis, so I took Chaska to Shake & Shine for hers. Once inside, we were led to the nail-trimming station to get her nails clipped and polished, then she finished up with a sudsy bath.
Chaska: I am not a fan of the Dremel tool. Still, the lady who used it was nice, and my nails felt good afterwards. Plus, I got another treat.
Erin: There are several dog-friendly properties around town, but the historic Hotel Leo appealed to me. The lobby is decorated with Moorish-style tiles and evokes an old-world charm. I also appreciated having a bar (Amendment 21) onsite in case I wanted a nightcap.
Once we got settled into our room, we explored the hotel. Then it was time for a quick change for me and an in-room dinner for Chaska.
Chaska: The Hotel Leo was easy to navigate on a leash. I also enjoyed the outdoor patio for a bit of fresh air. But what I really liked was the fountain in the lobby, even though I wasn’t allowed to drink the water.
Erin: Before dinner, Chaska and I made our way to Gruff Brewing, a true dog-heaven in an urban setting.
Several large firepits welcomed adults-only drinkers, while dog bowls set around the property welcomed four-legged visitors. An extensive selection of brews made the choice of what to order intriguing, and we relished snuggling up next to each other basking in the heat of the fire.
Chaska: Gruff Brewing must be a combination of “great” and “ruff,” because I literally couldn’t stop wagging my tail.
Erin: It was a short walk to Storia Cucina, where we had a reservation for dinner. Led to our table on the outside patio (furnished with heat lamps), we settled into our booth and perused the menu. I ordered a refreshing Little Gems Salad, their signature Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, and a decadent Bread Pudding for dessert – all of which was delicious.
Chaska: The ambiance was dog-gone great! Since I was the only pooch on the patio that night, I was really made to feel like the top-dog. Plus, mom promised me that I could have a bite of her leftovers once we’re home. X
Author’s Note: The Visit Bellingham site offers lots of info on dog-friendly accommodations, dining, and activities. Search at: www.bellingham.org
